Saturday’s heat did not stop DeKalb residents from coming out to enjoy cake, ice cream, music and magic in Palmers Court in downtown DeKalb.

The DeKalb Neighborhood Association Council gave out free glow sticks at its ice cream social in order to promote National Night Out, as well as provide helpful community information to the public.

DNAC is a local organization designed to help start associations in neighborhoods so they become strong communities.

On Aug. 2, National Night Out, residents across the nation are encouraged to go outside and walk around with a lightstick, DNAC member Marilyn Barrile said.

“Grab your neighbor and walk the street,” Barrile said.

DeKalb Police Chief Bill Feithen attended Saturday’s social to help spread the word for tonight’s walk.

“We are trying to draw some attention to the National Night Out, which is sponsored to encourage people to walk through their neighborhoods to make a statement against crime,” Feithen said.

Residents can survey their neighborhood area and report anything that needs attention or causes problems, Feithen said.

The event will help residents become more familiar with their communities.

“It’s a great chance to learn the needs of your neighborhood and neighbors,” Barrile said.

Most problem areas in a neighborhood are unique to the landscape, Barrile said, such as speedy strips of road, road-sign placements or senior citizens who need looking out for.

DNAC’s ice cream social ran as planned thanks in part to volunteers from Target and donations from businesses in the community.